Assault and Battery Lawyer Maryland — What Are Your Defense Options?
Assault and battery in Maryland are serious offenses under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201, with second-degree assault carrying up to 10 years in prison. An assault and battery lawyer Maryland from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build a strong defense. Our firm has 21 total documented case results in Montgomery County with a 95% favorable outcome rate. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Montgomery County | Maryland General Assembly
Maryland Assault and Battery Law
Maryland law defines assault and battery as separate but often related acts. Assault is an attempt or threat to cause harmful or offensive contact, while battery is the actual unwanted physical contact. The primary statute is Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201 (Assault in the second degree), which is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 10 years imprisonment and/or a $2,500 fine. First-degree assault under § 3-202 is a felony with a maximum penalty of 25 years. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 3-201 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Maryland Judiciary website.
Local Court Process for Assault Charges
In Montgomery County, assault cases begin at the District Court of Maryland. Prosecutors from the State’s Attorney’s office must prove intent and physical harm. A key local strategy involves seeking Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will be seen by a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and obtains all police reports and witness statements from the State.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court. For first-degree assault felonies, the case may be forwarded to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or PBJ: If convicted, your attorney argues for minimal penalties. If eligible, they advocate for a PBJ to prevent a permanent conviction.
In Montgomery County, second-degree assault carries up to 10 years in prison and a $2,500 fine, while first-degree assault is a felony with up to 25 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault 2nd Degree | Misdemeanor | Up to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Protective order, loss of firearm rights, employment difficulties |
| Assault 1st Degree | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Same as above, plus permanent felony record |
| Battery | Typically charged as assault | See assault penalties | See assault penalties | None directly | Civil liability for damages |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom. We have a documented track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
Case Results in Maryland
Our firm has a history of achieving positive results for clients facing serious charges. In Montgomery County alone, we have 21 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 95% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ cases with over 93% favorable outcomes. For example, our team has successfully secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) in child pornography promotion cases in Baltimore County.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Assault and Battery Defense Lawyer Serving Montgomery County
Our Rockville location serves clients at the District Court of MD for Montgomery County at 191 East Jefferson Street. We represent individuals in Rockville, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Montgomery County, Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties — second-degree assault: up to 10 years; theft $100-$1,500: up to 6 months. An attorney at District Court of MD for Montgomery County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or dismissal. 21 total documented case results across all practice areas (95% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between assault and battery in Maryland?
Assault is an attempt or threat to cause physical harm, while battery is the actual unlawful physical contact. They are often charged together. An assault and battery defense lawyer Maryland can explain how the specific facts of your case relate to these definitions and the corresponding penalties under Maryland law.
Can an assault charge be dismissed in Maryland?
It depends. An assault charge dismissed lawyer Maryland can work to have charges dropped (Nolle Prosequi) by challenging the evidence, proving self-defense, or showing a lack of probable cause. Success depends on the case specifics, but dismissals are a common goal in our defense strategy.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for assault?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the court withholds a finding of guilt if you complete probation successfully. It avoids a formal conviction on your record. An experienced assault and battery lawyer Maryland can advise if you are eligible and advocate for this outcome.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of assault?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with an assault and battery lawyer Maryland. Contact our firm 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing assault and battery charges, you may also want to learn about Maryland criminal defense. Our attorneys also assist clients in nearby areas like Prince George’s County and with related matters such as DUI defense in Montgomery County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your assault and battery case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a consultation.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.